Situs inversus totalis: case report of a mirrored anatomy

Abstract

Objective: To report the case of a patient with Situs inversus totalis (SIT), addressing the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and challenges related to this rare congenital condition. Case details: A 44-year-old female patient was incidentally diagnosed with Situs inversus totalis during preoperative examinations for cosmetic surgery. The patient was asymptomatic until then, but subsequently presented two acute conditions: cholecystitis and appendicitis. In both episodes, the clinical presentation was atypical due to the anatomical inversion of the organs, highlighting the importance of prior knowledge of the condition to avoid misdiagnosis and prepare the medical team for possible surgical approaches. Final considerations: Situs inversus totalis is a rare congenital condition that, although often asymptomatic, can make diagnoses and medical procedures difficult due to the mirror-like arrangement of the organs. Early recognition and proper documentation of the condition are crucial to ensure patient safety, especially in emergency situations, and to prepare the medical team for the anatomical implications of surgery and transplantation. Imaging tests play a key role in identifying this anomaly.